Planning your next getaway? Your choice of booking day could save you hundreds on airfare, according to the latest research. A comprehensive analysis from Expedia’s 2025 Air Hacks Report has uncovered the secrets to securing the best travel deals for both domestic and international flights.
Sunday Booking Strategy Could Save You 20%
Forget the myth of finding deals on Friday – Sunday has emerged as the ultimate money-saving day for booking flights. Travelers who book their domestic flights on Sundays can enjoy savings of up to 20% compared to other days of the week. For international journeys, the Sunday advantage still holds strong, offering potential savings of 17%.
Domestic Travel Planning: The Early Bird Gets the Deal
When it comes to domestic flights, strategic planning makes a significant difference. Booking your flight six months ahead could result in dramatic savings of up to 36% compared to last-minute bookings made just two weeks before departure. However, international travelers should take a different approach – booking two to three months ahead has proven more cost-effective than securing flights six months in advance.

Weekend Travel Myths Debunked
Traditional travel wisdom suggesting weekend flights are more expensive has been proven false. Saturday departures for domestic flights can actually save travelers up to 27% compared to Monday departures. This revelation challenges long-held beliefs about weekend travel costs and opens up new possibilities for budget-conscious travelers.
Seasonal Insights for Smart Booking
The report reveals several surprising seasonal trends:
January stands out as the most affordable month for economy flights, despite having the highest flight cancellation rate at 9.4%. February and March show the most reliable travel windows, with cancellation rates dropping to just 2.5%. For those seeking premium cabin experiences, October offers the best value.
Sarah King, Expedia’s travel expert, explains: “The travel landscape is evolving favorably for Australian travelers. We’re seeing more accessible long-haul destinations thanks to new flight routes, improved aircraft, and enhanced airport facilities. Even better, economy airfares have decreased by 10% compared to 2023, while premium tickets show a 3% reduction.”
Essential Travel Planning Tips for 2025
To maximize your chances of securing the best deals:
- Book domestic flights at least six months ahead
- Plan international trips two to three months in advance
- Consider Saturday departures for domestic travel
- Avoid afternoon flights (3-9pm) to minimize cancellation risks
- Look for evening flights (9pm-3am) for better reliability
Popular Destinations Trending in 2025
For domestic travelers, Sydney, Adelaide, and Canberra remain top choices. International adventurers are particularly drawn to Bali, Bangkok, and Los Angeles, reflecting a diverse mix of Asian and American destinations.
By following these data-driven insights, travelers can make informed decisions about their 2025 travel plans while maximizing their budget. Whether planning a domestic getaway or an international adventure, timing your booking right could lead to substantial savings on your next journey.